Official opening of the Rye Harbour Discovery Centre

Emma Chaplin
, 06 October 2021
Official opening of the Rye Harbour Discovery Centre
Kevin Cox, Tor Lawrence, Craig Bennett © Graham Franks

A state-of-the-art visitor centre with stunning views across Rye Harbour Nature Reserve held its official opening last week (September 30th).

Guests at the official opening of the Rye Harbour Discovery Centre included The Wildlife Trusts CEO Craig Bennett and RSPB Chair Kevin Cox, who were welcomed by Sussex Wildlife Trust CEO Tor Lawrence.

Rye Harbour Discovery Centre © Oliver Bates

© Oliver Bates

This flagship building provides an accessible hub for visitors to the amazing mosaic of habitats that support so much rare wildlife at Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. It boasts a well-equipped educational centre where people of all ages can learn about the special wildlife on the reserve, as well as Lime Kiln Café serving drinks, cake and light bites, plus a gift shop.

The Rye Harbour Discovery Centre has been built thanks to a partnership between Sussex Wildlife Trust and the Friends of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, and the hard work of the Appeal Board. It was designed by Simpson & Brown and built by Baxall Construction.

Many key funders, donors and supporters, including Vice-Lieutenant of East Sussex, Sara Stoner and Mayor of Rye, Rebekah Gilbert, were invited to this event to thank them for their invaluable contributions to this wonderful community facility, which will enable environmental understanding and action for many years to come. Pupils from Rye College were also invited and enjoyed looking at the new educational facilities.

l/r Andi Rivett, Deputy Mayor of Rye, Rebekah Gilbert, Mayor of Rye, Cliff Dean, Chair of the Friends of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. Sophie the dog 

l/r Andi Rivett, Deputy Mayor of Rye, Rebekah Gilbert, Mayor of Rye, Cliff Dean, Chair of the Friends of Rye Harbour Nature Reserve. Sophie the dog 

© Graham Franks

The Discovery Centre is open seven days a week and offers a warm welcome to all.

Facilities also include disabled access and toilets.

Visit Rye Harbour Nature Reserve website

Rye College pupils

Rye College pupils, years 8,9 and 10, with teacher Julie Willett © Graham Franks

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